Winchester Model 1894 .30 WCF Lever Action Rifle Antique MFD 1897
SOLD FOR: $1,375.00
LSB#: 241207A248
Make: Winchester
Model: 1894
Serial Number: 85971
Year of Manufacture: 1897
Caliber: .30 Winchester Center Fire (.30 WCF)
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Fed
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A.” The left side of the barrel is marked “NICKEL STEEL BARREL / ESPECIALLY FOR SMOKELESS POWDER.” The caliber marking “30 W.C.F.” is found on the barrel near the receiver. The top tang is marked “MODEL 1894 / -WINCHESTER- / PAT. AUG. 21. 1894.” The serial number “85971” is stamped on the underside of the receiver.
Barrel Length: 26” octagonal barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is an v-notch with two folding leaf ( center leaf is broken) dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle has a smooth walnut stock and forend. The wood exhibits handling wear, light scratches, and finish thinning, but no structural cracks or significant chips. The wood-to-metal fit is tight. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the steel crescent buttplate. The stocks rate in about good to very good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: The rifle features a full-length tubular magazine, in good condition with handling wear consistent with the rest of the rifle.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray, the rifling is well defined. There is moderate visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows thinning, patina, and scattered spots of oxidation. The receiver has notable finish wear, with areas of smooth gray patina. The edges of the octagonal barrel and receiver show handling wear and loss of bluing. The screw heads show light tool marks but remain serviceable. The markings are crisp and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1894 is one of the most legendary American lever-action rifles ever produced. This rifle, chambered in .30 WCF (.30-30 Winchester), represents one of the earliest examples of the iconic design. Produced in 1897, it falls within the pre-64 era and qualifies as a Curio & Relic firearm. The rifle features a 26” octagonal barrel, a full-length magazine tube, and classic Winchester craftsmanship, making it a desirable piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Winchester introduced the Model 1894 as a rugged and reliable rifle capable of handling the then-new smokeless powder cartridges. The .30 WCF (later standardized as .30-30 Winchester) became a dominant caliber for hunting medium-sized game in North America. With its nickel steel barrel marked “ESPECIALLY FOR SMOKELESS POWDER,” this rifle showcases Winchester’s early adoption of modern metallurgy to improve durability and performance.
For the collector, this rifle offers a glimpse into the transition period between black powder and smokeless powder firearms. The overall patina and wear tell a story of use in the field, but the mechanical integrity and bore condition suggest it remains a viable shooter. Whether added to a Winchester collection or taken to the range for some nostalgic shooting, this is a fine example of an early Model 1894. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck with your bids.-C.M.
